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1996 Toyota Camry P0420 Code: Is It Related to Griffin iTrip Device?

Model: 96 Toyota Camry Fault Code: P0420 Posted: 2007-02-10 13:44

Hello everyone, I'm currently troubleshooting my 1996 Toyota Camry that has triggered a Check Engine Light and displayed Diagnostic Trouble Code P0420 — Catalyst Efficiency Below Threshold (Bank 1). The car runs smoothly otherwise. The issue began after I installed the Griffin iTrip/charger device. After using it, the Check Engine Light turned on. Additionally, my power door locks stopped working properly: once I remove my key from the ignition, the locks no longer function automatically — I now have to manually lock the doors each time I leave the vehicle. I'm wondering if there's a connection between the P0420 code and the iTrip device. Could this be a coincidence, or is it possible that the device is interfering with the vehicle’s emissions system or electrical signals? Any insights or suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Related fault codes
P0420
Comments (4)
Anonymous 2007-02-12 09:20

Remove the Griffin iTrip/charger and clear all codes. Then monitor for a few days to see if the P0420 code returns. This will help determine whether the device is causing or contributing to the issue.

Anonymous 2007-02-14 21:30

This is almost certainly a coincidence. A P0420 code relates only to catalyst efficiency and does not affect power door locks. The code indicates that the catalytic converter is not performing efficiently — likely due to issues such as a failing oxygen sensor, fuel trim imbalance, or a deteriorating catalytic converter. It has no connection to vehicle electrical systems like door lock functionality.

Anonymous 2007-02-22 15:49

I agree with the above — P0420 is unrelated to the iTrip device. I've experienced similar issues with my power locks, but they're tied to the interior dome light. When the dome light is on, door locks momentarily engage and then unlock. If the dome light is set to auto or off, locks work until a door is opened. I also lose dashboard alerts like seat belt warnings and clock functions. These reset to 1:00 when the dome light is off or in auto mode. In my case, I don’t have a dome light at all — if you find a solution, please share it with me.

Anonymous 2007-02-22 15:57

Gremlin? Maybe — but likely just an electrical glitch tied to the vehicle's lighting system, not related to emissions or devices like iTrip.